Upper Ball Joints

At this time the manufacturer does not provide removal and installation procedures for this component. The following procedure is a guideline and may differ from the vehicle you are servicing.

Before servicing the vehicle, refer to the Precautions Section.

NOTE

Disconnecting the negative battery cable on some vehicles may interfere with the functions of the on-board computer systems and may require the computer to undergo a relearning process, once the negative battery cable is reconnected.

NOTE

If working near and/or around the SRS system and components, be sure to properly disable the SRS system. See disarming/arming the SRS system.

NOTE

For vehicles equipped with OnStar (RPO UE1), with battery backup, the backup battery is a redundant power supply to allow limited ONStar functionality in the event of a main battery power disruption to the OnStar module (VCIM). Do not disconnect the main vehicle battery or remove the OnStar fuse with the ignition key in any position other than OFF. Retained accessory power should be allowed to time out or be disabled by opening the driver-s side door before disconnecting power. Disconnecting power to the module in any way while the ignition is ON or with the retained accessory power activated may cause activation of the OnStar backup battery system and will discharge and permanently damage the backup battery. Once the backup battery is activated it will stay on until it has completely discharged. The backup battery is not rechargeable and once it is activated, it must be replaced.

Disconnect the negative battery cable.

Raise and safely support the vehicle.

Remove the tire and wheel assembly.

Remove the caliper assembly. Do not allow the caliper to hang by the brake line.

Remove the cotter pin from the ball stud. Discard the cotter pin.

Loosen but do not remove the stud nut. Do not loosen more than one turn.

NOTE

Be sure to properly support the lower control arm to prevent the coil spring from forcing the control arm downward.

Install tool J23742 or equivalent between the stud and turn the threaded end of the tool until the stud is free of the steering knuckle.

NOTE

Properly support the lower control arm using a suitable jack, to prevent the spring forcing the control arm downward.

Disconnect the upper ball joint stud nut and allow the knuckle to swing out of the way.

Lift the upper arm up and place a piece of wood between the frame and the upper arm to act as a support.

NOTE

The upper ball joint is spring loaded in its socket.

If replacement is necessary, remove the rivets from the upper control arm.

Remove the ball joint from the vehicle.

Fig. Upper ball joint removal (1 of 3)

Fig. Upper ball joint removal (2 of 3)

Fig. Upper ball joint removal (3 of 3)

Fig. Upper ball joint and related components

To install:

NOTE

Be sure to use new fasteners, as required.

NOTE

Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread sealer are identified. Do not use paints, lubricants or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners.

Installation is the reverse of the removal procedure.

NOTE

New ball joints are provided with bolts and nuts for installation. Insert the bolts from the bottom and the nuts on top.

Tighten the ball stud to 20 ft. lbs.

Be sure to use new cotter pins.

Check and adjust front end alignment, as required.

Using the GM diagnostic scan tool or aftermarket equivalent reprogram the necessary systems and components. Be sure to follow the scan tool manufacturer-s directions.